Migraine surgery performed by a plastic surgeon?

Full Question:

I have read a recent article about migraine and nerve compression, especially in people whose migraines begin in the back of the head and neck area. a new surgery that would remove the nerve, this is performed by a plastic surgeon, your thoughts? Cathy.

Answer:

Dear Cathy;

I'm a little lukewarm on the data for all the money it takes to do the procedure. I see the failures of these procedures done locally.

Keep in mind that their success rate that's being reported is different from what we're used to seeing presented. It's not based on ALL Migraineurs. It's based only on Migraineurs for whom Botox injections had worked and were then enrolled in the trials or elected to have the surgery.

You can read more about this in:

• Plastic Surgery for Migraines? and
• Plastic Surgery for Migraines? Maybe.

Good luck,
John Claude Krusz and Teri Robert

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About Ask the Clinician:

Dr. Krusz is a recognized expert in the fields of headache and Migraine treatment and pain treatment. Each week, he and Lead Expert Teri Robert, team up to answer your questions about headaches and Migraines. You can read more about Dr. Krusz or more about Teri Robert.

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© Teri Robert and J.C. Krusz, 2009.
Last updated November 2, 2009.